From Caldwell to Capitol Hill: Jennifer Vidales Selected for Prestigious Internship

ISU alumna Jennifer Vidales (’25, Political Science) has been selected for the prestigious Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute Internship, where she will represent Idaho while gaining hands-on experience with the legislative process in Washington, D.C.

Idaho State University (ISU) alumna Jennifer Vidales (’25, Political Science) has been selected for the highly competitive Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) Internship Program, a national opportunity that places young leaders in congressional offices to gain hands-on experience with the legislative process.

“I am most looking forward to gaining a better understanding of the legislative process and making connections with people who care about creating change,” said Vidales. “While in D.C., I will be in a congressional office, attend CHCI events, and learn how policy is shaped on the national level.”

A first-generation college graduate from Caldwell, Idaho, Vidales’ passion for advocacy began in high school during a Lobbying 101 training with the ACLU of Idaho, an experience that first sparked her interest in public service and political science. At ISU she found her voice as a leader and advocate, crediting her professors for helping her discover her purpose.

“My experience at ISU has helped contribute to the development of my growth as a student leader and thinker,” she says. “The support of professors in the Political Science department, who themselves support student success by sharing their passion through their teaching, has provided me with purpose while fostering my love for community-based work, especially with the Latine community.”

During her time at ISU, Vidales immersed herself in programs like CAMP and TRIO SSS, which gave her opportunities to lead and give back. She founded Los Estudiantes Después, a club focused on Latine policy and student leadership, served in Associated Students of ISU, and interned with organizations such as the ACLU of Idaho and United We Dream.

“These opportunities didn’t just help me grow, they gave me the experience and confidence I needed to be a competitive applicant and pursue programs like CHCI,” she explained.

Vidales sees her role in the internship as a chance to represent Idaho’s diverse communities on the national stage.

“It is important for me to uplift underrepresented communities in Idaho and to help ensure their perspectives are part of the conversations being had. I think representing Idaho means sharing my lived experience and assisting others in understanding the challenges and assets that shape our communities.”

Alumna Jennifer Vidales (’25, Political Science)